Genetics Technologist II
About The Position
Under minimal supervision, coordinates, oversees, and performs routine and specialized activities related to the operation of the cytogenetics laboratory. Develops protocols, coordinates workflow, and oversees quality control in specialized areas of the laboratory. The role includes preparing and maintaining human tissue cell cultures for genetic testing; preparing hematological and FFPE samples for FISH; handling and washing FISH slides; documenting laboratory findings; analyzing metaphase spreads and interphase nuclei; capturing and enhancing images for karyotyping; preparing reagents and solutions; and supporting quality assurance and laboratory safety. The technologist also serves as a technical resource for less experienced personnel and assists in overseeing work in specialized laboratory areas. The position is based at the CSI site in Alpharetta, Georgia. The work may involve exposure to toxic chemicals and biohazards associated with handling blood, solid tissue, and body fluids. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field.
- At least three years of experience in a cytogenetics laboratory.
- Certification as a Cytogenetic Technologist by ASCP.
- Complete continuing education hours required by the applicable licensing or certification maintenance program; personnel whose certification is grandfathered and does not require maintenance must complete at least 12 hours annually.
- Knowledge of protocols for washing and handling FISH slides.
- Ability to analyze selected banded metaphase spreads and/or interphase nuclei with 98% accuracy.
- Knowledge of and ability to program RapidFISH ovens, Thermobrites, and VP2000s.
- Knowledge of laboratory equipment including fume hoods, centrifuges, biological safety cabinets, pipette aids, and pH meters.
- Ability to follow universal precautions when handling body fluids.
Responsibilities
- Initiate, maintain, and harvest human tissue cell cultures for genetic testing.
- Prepare samples for hematological FISH by creating smears and/or preparing slides from harvested cultures.
- Prepare FFPE samples for Her2/neu and other paraffin-embedded FISH analysis.
- Follow appropriate protocols for washing and handling FISH slides.
- Record pertinent laboratory data on appropriate forms or charts to ensure accurate and complete documentation.
- Participate in regularly scheduled laboratory meetings and present relevant information.
- Analyze selected banded metaphase spreads and/or interphase nuclei under a microscope or on a monitor for genetic abnormalities, with 98% accuracy.
- Maintain a daily work log and exceed the stated productivity standard of four full karyotyping cases and/or 60 FISH probes analyzed per day.
- Use specialized equipment to capture and enhance images at optimum resolution for karyotyping.
- Attend in-services, read professional literature, participate in educational programs, and complete proficiency testing to remain current in cytogenetics.
- Design and assist in developing new protocols, and identify ways to improve laboratory procedures and methodologies.
- Prepare reagents, stains, media, and solutions for FISH according to laboratory protocols.
- Program RapidFISH ovens, Thermobrites, and VP2000s, and use other equipment needed for the role.
- Ensure compliance with quality control policies and procedures and applicable clinical laboratory standards and laws.
- Serve as a technical resource for less experienced personnel regarding laboratory procedures.
- Assist in overseeing work in one or more specialized laboratory activity areas.
- Practice universal precautions when handling body fluids.
- Perform other duties as specified by the supervisor.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
